Total knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, replaces a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial one. This procedure is highly effective for patients suffering from severe arthritis, injuries, or degenerative joint diseases.
Chennai, a hub for advanced medical care, boasts highly skilled total knee replacement surgeons in Chennai who utilize state-of-the-art techniques. Additionally, the cost of total knee replacement in Chennai is often more affordable compared to other cities, making it a preferred choice for both domestic and international patients.
Patients from around the globe are attracted to the city’s healthcare system, thanks to its affordability and advanced medical infrastructure. The success rate of total knee replacement in Chennai is among the highest, ensuring confidence in the quality of care. Hospitals like Sunway Medical Centre further enhance Chennai’s reputation by offering comprehensive orthopedic services.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for Surgery
If you experience any of the following symptoms, consulting an expert for total knee replacement in Chennai might be necessary:
- Persistent knee pain, even during rest, that worsens over time.
- Swelling and stiffness that limits movement, affecting daily activities.
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods.
- Knee deformities, such as a bowlegged or knock-kneed appearance.
- Reduced quality of life due to constant knee discomfort and inability to perform routine tasks.
These symptoms not only impact mobility but can also lead to emotional distress. Seeking timely consultation can prevent further complications and improve your overall well-being.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgeries
There are different types of knee replacement surgeries available, depending on the severity and location of the knee damage. Chennai’s hospitals offer all these options:
Partial Knee Replacement
- Targets only the damaged portion of the knee joint.
- Minimally invasive with shorter recovery times.
- Suitable for early-stage arthritis and localized damage.
Total Knee Replacement
- Involves replacing the entire knee joint.
- Ideal for severe arthritis or degenerative diseases.
- Provides long-lasting results with proper care and maintenance.
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
- Utilizes advanced robotic technology for precision and accuracy.
- Reduces complications and ensures better joint alignment.
- Allows for faster recovery, minimal scarring, and improved functionality.
Revision Knee Replacement
- Performed to replace an existing artificial joint that has failed or worn out.
- Recommended for cases of implant loosening, infection, or mechanical issues.
Diagnosis and Pre-Surgery Evaluation
A thorough diagnosis is critical to determine whether you need total knee replacement surgery in Chennai. The process typically includes:
- Physical Examination: Assessing your range of motion, swelling, and pain levels.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays to evaluate joint alignment and MRI scans for soft tissue analysis.
- Blood Tests: To rule out infections, autoimmune disorders, or underlying conditions.
- Medical History: Understanding previous treatments, current medications, and overall health status.
Your surgeon may also perform additional tests to assess your cardiovascular health and ensure you are fit for surgery. This comprehensive evaluation helps tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Not all knee problems require surgery. Many patients benefit from non-invasive treatments, including:
- Physical Therapy: Strengthens muscles around the knee and improves mobility, reducing strain on the joint.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers to manage discomfort.
- Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid injections for temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
- Assistive Devices: Braces or orthotic supports to stabilize the knee joint.
- Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, low-impact exercises like swimming, and a balanced diet to promote joint health.
While these methods offer temporary relief, they may not address advanced joint damage. In such cases, total knee replacement in Chennai becomes the most viable solution.
The Surgery Process
When conservative treatments do not work, total knee replacement surgery in Chennai offers a definitive solution. The surgical procedure includes:
- Preparation: Administering anesthesia and sterilizing the surgical site to ensure safety.
- Joint Replacement: Removing the damaged bone and cartilage from the knee.
- Implantation: Placing metal or plastic components to replicate the natural joint.
- Alignment Check: Ensuring the artificial joint functions smoothly and provides proper alignment.
- Closure: Stitching the incision and applying sterile dressings to prevent infection.
The procedure typically lasts 1-2 hours, followed by close monitoring in the recovery room. Hospitals specializing in total knee replacement in Chennai, including Sunway Medical Centre, ensure patients receive personalized care throughout their stay.
Risks and Complications
While total knee replacement surgery in Chennai is generally safe, it’s essential to understand the potential risks:
- Infection at the surgical site or surrounding tissues.
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs, which require immediate medical attention.
- Nerve or blood vessel damage during the procedure.
- Implant wear or loosening over time, leading to revision surgery.
- Limited range of motion or persistent pain despite the surgery.
Choosing an experienced total knee replacement surgeon in Chennai and adhering to postoperative guidelines significantly minimizes these risks.
Preparing for Surgery
Proper preparation ensures the success of your surgery and smooth recovery. Steps to prepare include:
- Consultation: Discuss your medical history, medications, and any concerns with your surgeon.
- Preoperative Tests: Comprehensive blood work, imaging tests, and health assessments.
- Fasting: Avoid eating or drinking 8-12 hours before surgery to prevent complications during anesthesia.
- Home Modifications: Arrange for mobility aids like walkers and create a clutter-free recovery area.
- Support System: Enlist family or friends to assist you during the initial weeks post-surgery.
Importance of Physical Therapy
Post-surgery rehabilitation is as crucial as the procedure itself. Physical therapy aids in:
- Regaining strength and flexibility through targeted exercises.
- Reducing swelling and stiffness in the joint.
- Preventing complications like blood clots or scar tissue formation.
- Restoring normal joint function for daily activities, such as walking and climbing stairs.
A well-structured rehabilitation plan, designed by experts, ensures that patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
Why Choose Chennai for Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
- Expertise: Renowned total knee replacement surgeon in Chennai with extensive experience.
- Cost-Effective Care: The cost of total knee replacement in Chennai is highly competitive without compromising quality.
- Advanced Facilities: Hospitals equipped with cutting-edge technology, including robotic-assisted surgeries.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Focus on personalized treatment plans and holistic recovery.
- Global Reputation: Chennai’s medical tourism industry attracts patients worldwide for its reliability and excellence.
Institutions like Sunway Medical Centre exemplify these qualities, offering top-notch care for knee replacement patients.